Frequently Asked Questions
Celia Dunsmore is a Medicare-registered Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) providing counselling in Brunswick and Coburg, Melbourne. Sessions are 50 minutes and cost $225.57. With a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, a Medicare rebate of $89.50 applies — reducing the out-of-pocket cost to $136.07 per session, for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. Telehealth sessions are also available across Australia.
Most Asked Questions
How much does a session cost?
$225.57 per 50-minute session. With a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, a Medicare rebate of $89.50 applies — bringing your out-of-pocket cost to $136.07 per session.
Can I access Medicare rebates?
Yes. Celia Dunsmore is a registered Medicare provider. With a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, you can receive a rebate of $89.50 per session for up to 10 sessions per calendar year.
Does Celia offer telehealth?
Yes. Secure online video counselling sessions are available for clients throughout Australia, in addition to in-person appointments at Brunswick and Coburg.
What happens in the first session?
Your first 50-minute session gives Celia the chance to understand your background, current concerns, and counselling goals. There is no pressure — the pace is guided by what feels right for you.
How many sessions will I need?
Session numbers vary by individual. Many clients work through a specific concern in 6–10 sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support. Celia reviews progress collaboratively and regularly.
What is an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker?
An Accredited Mental Health Social Worker (AMHSW) is a social worker accredited by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) to provide focused psychological strategies. AMHSWs are registered Medicare providers.
What therapeutic approaches does Celia use?
Celia draws on EMDR for trauma, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Attachment-Based Therapy.
What is the difference between counselling and psychology?
As an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, I provide counselling services that focus on helping you develop coping strategies, process emotions, and create positive change in your life. While psychologists and social workers both provide mental health services, social workers often take a more holistic approach that considers your social environment and support systems.
What can I expect in the first counselling session?
Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. We'll discuss what brings you to counselling, your goals, and any concerns you may have. It's a collaborative process where we establish a foundation of trust and safety, and you can ask any questions you have about the therapeutic process. My aim is to help you feel comfortable and understood from the very beginning.
How much is the Medicare Rebate for each counselling session?
If eligible, the Medicare Rebate is $89.50 per session. Your GP can provide you with a Mental Health Care Plan, which will ensure you receive the Medicare Rebate.
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
Counselling can be helpful if you're experiencing difficult emotions, life transitions, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, or simply want to better understand yourself. If you're unsure, I offer a brief initial consultation to discuss whether counselling would be beneficial for your specific situation.
How long does a typical counselling session last?
A standard counselling session is 50 minutes long. This duration allows enough time for in-depth exploration of your concerns while remaining focused and manageable. For specific therapies like EMDR, session lengths may occasionally vary, which we would discuss and agree upon beforehand.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies greatly from person to person and depends on your individual needs and goals. Some clients find resolution for specific issues in a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term therapy for more complex challenges. We will regularly review our progress together to ensure the therapy remains effective and tailored to you.
Do I need to pay upfront for the counselling session and then obtain the Medicare rebate?
You will need to pay with a payment card at the end of the session, and the rebate will be automatically processed for you with your Medicare card.
What is a Mental Health Care Plan and how do I get one?
A Mental Health Care Plan is a document your GP creates that outlines your mental health needs and treatment goals. It allows you to access Medicare rebates for psychological services. To get one, book an appointment with your GP, discuss your mental health concerns, and ask about a Mental Health Care Plan referral.
How long does counselling typically take?
The length of counselling varies greatly depending on your individual needs and goals. Some people benefit from short-term focused work (6-12 sessions), while others prefer longer-term support. We'll regularly review your progress and discuss what feels right for you.
How do I obtain the Medicare rebate?
The Medicare rebate will be automatically processed for you at the end of the session when you pay with your payment card and present your Medicare card.
How do Medicare rebates work?
With a valid Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, you can receive Medicare rebates of $89.50 per session. Your GP can refer you for up to 6 initial sessions, with the possibility of 4 additional sessions upon review, for a total of 10 sessions per calendar year. The rebate can be processed directly, so you only pay the difference.
Is what I share in counselling confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of my practice. Everything we discuss is kept strictly confidential. The only exceptions are legal and ethical obligations, such as if there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, or if required by a court of law. We will discuss the specifics of confidentiality in our first session.
Do I need a referral to see you?
No, you do not need a referral to book an appointment with me. You can contact me directly to schedule a session. However, if you wish to claim a Medicare rebate, you will need to obtain a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP before our first session.
What do you provide the referring GP?
GP update reports are provided for free as part of your support needs.
Do you offer telehealth appointments?
Yes, I offer secure telehealth appointments for your convenience. This can be particularly helpful if you have mobility issues, live far from my locations, or prefer the comfort of your own space. Telehealth sessions are just as effective as in-person sessions for many concerns.
What if I'm experiencing financial difficulties?
Please contact me to discuss your situation and explore potential options. I'm committed to supporting all clients while maintaining a sustainable practice.
How do I get a Mental Health Care Plan?
To get a Mental Health Care Plan, you'll need to book a longer appointment with your GP to discuss your mental health concerns. Your GP will assess your eligibility and, if appropriate, prepare the plan, which entitles you to Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual counselling sessions per calendar year.
Do I need a referral to obtain the Medicare Rebate?
Yes, your GP must provide a referral letter and relevant management plan.
What are your fees and do you offer rebates?
My standard session fee is $225.57. With a valid Mental Health Care Plan, you are eligible for a Medicare rebate of $89.50 per session, making the out-of-pocket cost $136.07. Some private health insurers may also offer rebates for counselling with an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker; please check with your provider.
Do you offer telehealth sessions?
Yes, I offer secure telehealth sessions via video call. This is particularly useful if you have mobility challenges, live far from my practice locations, or prefer the comfort and privacy of your own home. Telehealth sessions are just as effective as in-person sessions for many clients.
How often should I attend sessions?
Most clients find weekly sessions helpful initially, though this can vary based on your individual needs and circumstances. As you progress, we might space sessions to fortnightly or monthly. We'll work together to find a frequency that supports your goals and fits your schedule.
What is your cancellation policy?
I require a minimum of 48 hours' notice to reschedule or cancel an appointment without a fee. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice, or non-attendance, will incur a cancellation fee of $110. This policy allows me to offer the appointment time to other clients who may be waiting for a session.
What does the Mental Health Care Plan provide?
An initial 6 sessions of counselling with a mental health clinician. A further 4 sessions can be provided if needed. The total number of sessions you can claim under the plan is capped at 10 per calendar year.
Is what I share in sessions confidential?
Yes, everything you share is strictly confidential. I'm bound by professional ethical guidelines and legal requirements to protect your privacy. The only exceptions are situations involving risk of serious harm to yourself or others, or if required by law (such as a court order).
What approaches do you use in counselling?
I draw on several evidence-based approaches including Attachment Theory, Emotion Focused Therapy, Compassion Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). I tailor my approach to your individual needs and what works best for you. I also draw on EMDR for trauma work, alongside Polyvagal Theory and Somatic Experiencing — body-based, "bottom-up" approaches that help calm the nervous system.